Dynamic flip toaster

ABSTRACT

A cooking system positionable on a support surface includes a housing having an internal cooking compartment and an opening formed in the housing for accessing said internal cooking compartment. At least one heating element is provided for heating said internal cooking compartment. The heating element is operable to heat the internal cooking compartment while the opening is at least partially exposed to an ambient environment to allow fluid transfer between the ambient environment and the internal cooking compartment. An output from said at least one heating element is variable across said internal cooking compartment during operation of the system.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 63/083,308 filed Sep. 25, 2020 and to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 63/005,774 filed Apr. 6, 2020 and also to U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 63/005,777 filed Apr. 6, 2020, all of which areincorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to a cookingsystem, and more particularly, to a countertop cooking system operablein both a first position and a second, rotated position.

Existing countertop cooking systems, such as toasters for example, maybe used to conveniently warm or cook food. Food is typically insertedinto an opening of a toaster in a vertical orientation. As a result, thetoaster is only capable of cooking a dry piece of bread or bagel. If atopping were included on a surface of the food item inserted verticallyinto the toaster, the topping would likely drip or fall as a result ofgravity, to the bottom of the toaster. It is therefore desirable todevelop a countertop toaster that can transform between variousorientations based on the type of cooking operation to be performed.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a cooking system positionable on a supportsurface includes a housing having an internal cooking compartment and anopening formed in said housing for accessing said internal cookingcompartment. The housing is positionable about the support surface inboth a first orientation and a second, distinct orientation. At leastone heating element is associated with said internal cookingcompartment. The at least one heating element is operable to heat saidinternal cooking compartment in both said first orientation and saidsecond orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said housing is rotatable about anaxis between said first orientation and said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a pivot structure coupledto said housing, said pivot structure defining said axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first orientation of saidhousing is arranged perpendicular to said second orientation of saidhousing.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element islocated within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element islocated remotely from said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments food is receivable within saidopening in both said first orientation and said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating elementincludes a first heating element and a second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first heating element isenergized during said first cooking operation and said second cookingoperation and said second heating element is energized during said firstcooking operation and is de-energized during said second cookingoperation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the cooking system is operable in aplurality of cooking modes and one or more of said plurality of cookingmodes is selectable in based on an orientation of said housing.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the cooking system is operable in afirst cooking mode of said plurality of cooking modes when said housingis in said first orientation and the cooking system is operable insecond cooking mode of said plurality of cooking modes when said housingis in said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first cooking mode includes atoasting operation, and said second cooking mode includes at least oneof a bake, broil, warm and reheat operation.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having a cooking compartment and anopening formed in said housing for accessing said cooking compartment. Aposition of said opening is transformable between a first orientationand a second orientation, said first orientation and said second planeorientation distinct. At least one heating element is operable to heatsaid cooking compartment. Food is insertable into said cookingcompartment via said opening when said opening is arranged within bothsaid first orientation and said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said opening is transformablebetween said first plane and said second plane via rotation of saidhousing about an axis of rotation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said housing includes a pivotstructure connected to said housing, said pivot structure defining saidaxis of rotation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first orientation is orientedperpendicular to said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments in said first orientation, saidopening is arranged horizontally relative to the support surface and insaid second orientation, said opening is oriented vertically relative tothe support surface.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element islocated within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element isoperable to heat said internal cooking compartment when said opening isin said first orientation and said opening is in said second plane.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the cooking system is operable in afirst cooking mode when said opening is in said first plane and thecooking system is operable in second cooking mode when said opening isarranged in said second plane.

According to an embodiment, a cooking system positionable on a supportsurface including a housing having an internal cooking compartment andan opening formed in said housing for accessing said internal cookingcompartment. At least one food support element is disposed within saidinternal cooking compartment. The at least one food support element ismovable within said internal cooking compartment between a firstposition and a second position in response to an orientation of saidhousing relative to the support surface.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said housing is rotatable about anaxis between a first orientation and a second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement is automatically movable between said first position and saidsecond position as said housing is rotated between said first positionand said second position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments including a mechanism for movingsaid at least one food support element between said first position andsaid second position, said mechanism including a panel having an openingformed therein, a post disposed within said opening, said post beingoperably coupled to said at least one support member and a support wedgemovable relative to said panel, wherein said support wedge is operableto engage and move said post within said opening.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said support wedge is operablycoupled to a mount via a rod, wherein said mount remains stationary whensaid housing is moved relative to the support surface.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement includes a first food support element and a second food supportelement, and in said first position, a clearance defined between saidfirst food support element and said second food support element is afirst distance, and in said second position, said clearance is a seconddistance, said second distance being greater than said first distance.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first food support element ismovable between said first position and said second position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments both said first food support elementand said second food support element are movable between said firstposition and said second position, respectively.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments at least one heating element forheating said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element isdisposed within said internal cooking chamber between said housing andsaid at least one food support element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating elementincludes a first heating element and a second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments both said first heating element andsaid second heating element are energized when said at least one foodsupport element is in said first position.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment. The housing is movable between a first orientation and asecond orientation. The cooking system additionally includes at leastone heating element for heating said internal cooking compartment, alever movable between a first position and a second position, and alocking mechanism operable to lock said lever in said second position.The housing is movable between said first orientation and said secondorientation only when said lever is in said second position and saidlocking mechanism is engaged with said lever.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said lever includes a slider, saidlocking mechanism connectable to said slider when said lever is in saidsecond position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said locking mechanism includes anactuator having a shaft movable to selectively engage a portion of saidlever.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said actuator is a push-push button.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said actuator is not operable whensaid housing is in said second orientation.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments in said second position, said leveris arranged in contact with a switch, and said at least one heatingelement is energized.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said lever is not arranged incontact with said switch when said locking mechanism and said lever areengaged.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment and an opening formed in said housing for accessing saidinternal cooking compartment. At least one heating element is operableto heat said internal cooking compartment while said opening is at leastpartially exposed to an ambient environment to allow fluid transferbetween said ambient environment and said internal cooking compartment.The output from said at least one heating element is variable acrosssaid internal cooking compartment during operation of the system.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said output from said at least oneheating element into said internal cooking compartment at a locationadjacent said opening is greater than said output from said at least oneheating element at a location adjacent a rear of said cookingcompartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating elementincludes a plurality of heating elements and a first heating element anda second heating element, said first heating element being operable toheat a front portion of said internal cooking compartment adjacent saidopening, and said second heating element being operable to heat a rearportion of said cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first heating element isoperable independently from said second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments during operation of the cookingsystem in the second position, heat generated by said first heatingelement is greater than heat generated by said second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments during operation of the cookingsystem in the second position, said first heating element is energizedfor a greater time than said second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments during operation of the cookingsystem in the second position said first heating element is continuouslyenergized and said second heating element is pulsed.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first heating element has agreater wattage than said second heating element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating element isa single heating element having a non-uniform configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments in said first configuration, saidopening is arranged horizontally relative to the support surface and insaid second configuration, said opening is oriented vertically relativeto the support surface.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment and an opening formed in said housing for accessing saidinternal cooking compartment. At least one heating element is operableto heat said internal cooking compartment. An accessory is receivablewithin said internal cooking compartment via said opening. The accessorycloses at least a portion of said opening when said accessory isreceived within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said accessory is a tray having abase and a lip extending perpendicularly to said base.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments when said tray is positioned withinsaid internal cooking compartment said lip substantially closes saidopening.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments at least one view port is formed insaid lip.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments at least one view port is closedwith a transparent material.

According to yet another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment. The housing is movable between a first orientation and asecond orientation. At least one heating element is operable to heatsaid internal cooking compartment. A mechanism positionable in or aboutsaid housing is operable to detect insertion of said insert in saidinternal cooking compartment. The mechanism allows operation of said atleast one heating element when said insert is detected.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said mechanism allows operation ofsaid at least one heating element only when said insert is detected.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said mechanism determines when saidinsert is properly positioned within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said mechanism further comprises astop bar.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a switch, said stop barbeing movable to actuate said switch in response to detecting insertionof said insert in said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said mechanism further comprises aplunger.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a switch, said plungerbeing movable to actuate said switch in response to detecting insertionof said insert in said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments at least a portion of said mechanismis positioned within said internal cooking compartment, within a path ofinsertion of said insert.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said mechanism restricts movement ofsaid insert within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said insert includes a first supportfeature complementary to a second support arranged about said housing,wherein said second support feature cooperates with said first supportfeature to position said accessory within said internal cookingcompartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said second support feature is a rodhaving a non-linear configuration including a raised portion and saidfirst support feature is a groove sized to receive said raised portiontherein.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment and an exterior surface. The housing is movable between afirst orientation and a second orientation. At least one heating elementis configured to heat both said internal cooking compartment and saidexterior surface. The exterior surface is oriented to support a foodsupport item when said housing is in said second position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said internal cooking compartmentand said exterior surface are heatable by said at least one heatingelement independently.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said internal cooking compartmentand said exterior surface are heatable by said at least one heatingelement simultaneously.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said exterior surface furthercomprises at least one raised feature oriented to support said foodsupport item.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments a support surface of said at leastone raised feature is offset from said exterior surface by about 2 mm.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one raised feature isa plurality of ribs.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating elementoperable to heat said exterior surface is located within said internalcooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one heating elementincludes a first heating element and a second heating element, whereinsaid first heating element is operable to heat said internal cookingcompartment and said second heating element is operable to heat saidexterior surface.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first heating element and saidsecond heating element are independently controllable.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first heating element and saidsecond heating element are operable simultaneously.

According to another embodiment, a cooking system positionable on asupport surface includes a housing having an internal cookingcompartment. At least one heating element is operable to heat saidinternal cooking compartment. At least one food support element isaffixed within said internal cooking compartment and is translatable andpivotable within said internal cooking compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments the cooking system further comprisesa radiant casing positioned within said housing, said at least one foodsupport element being mounted to said radiant casing.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement includes one or more posts located within one or more supportopenings formed in said radiant casing, wherein a configuration of saidone or more support openings defines a path of movement of said at leastone food support element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement has an upper post located within a first support opening and alower post located within a second support opening.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said first support opening and saidsecond support opening are horizontally oriented and a length of saidfirst support opening is greater than a length of said second supportopening

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a biasing mechanismoperably coupled to said at least one food support element, wherein saidat least one food support element is movable in response to a biasingforce of said biasing mechanism.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement includes a first food support element and a second food supportelement separated from one another by a gap.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said at least one food supportelement is movable between a first position and a second position,wherein when said at least one support element is in said secondposition, said gap is non-uniform over a height of said at least onefood support element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments when said at least one supportelement is in said first position, said gap is uniform over said heightof said at least one food support element.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments said gap adjacent a first end ofsaid first food support element and a first end of said second foodsupport element when in said second position is less than said gapadjacent said first end of said first food support element and saidfirst end of said second food support element when in said firstposition, and said gap adjacent a second end of said first food supportelement and a second end of said second food support element when insaid second position is less than said gap adjacent said second end ofsaid first food support element and said second end of said second foodsupport element when in said first position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a movable support memberdisposed within said internal cooking compartment, wherein said at leastone food support element translates and pivots in response to movementof said support member.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as analternative, in further embodiments comprising a movement mechanismoperable to move said support member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of thespecification embodies several aspects of the present disclosure and,together with the description, serves to explain the principles of thedisclosure. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the cooking system of FIG. 2 in afirst cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of at least one food support element whenthe cooking system is in the first cooking orientation according to anembodiment;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of at least one food support element whenthe cooking system is in the second cooking orientation according to anembodiment;

FIG. 6 is a side view of a cooking system including a load/ejector leveraccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a movement mechanism and asupport member of the cooking system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a movement mechanism and asupport member of the cooking system according to another embodiment;

FIG. 9 is another perspective view of a portion of a movement mechanismand support member of FIG. 8 according to another embodiment;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a portion of a movement mechanism anda support member of the cooking system when the support member is in aninactive position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a portion of a movement mechanism anda support member of FIG. 10A when the support member is in an activeposition according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of a cooking system when the supportmember is in an inactive position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the cooking system of FIG. 11Awhen the support member is in an inactive position according to anembodiment;

FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a cooking system when the supportmember is in an inactive position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the cooking system of FIG. 11Awhen the support member is in an inactive position according to anembodiment;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a portion of a cooking system when thesupport member is in an inactive position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a portion of a cooking system of FIG.13A when the support member is in an inactive position according to anembodiment;

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the cooking systemaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 1 in a secondcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 2 in a secondcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 2 in a secondcooking orientation with an accessory located in the internal cookingcompartment according to an embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 4 in a secondcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 19 in a secondcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of a pivot structure of the cookingsystem according to an embodiment;

FIG. 22 is an end view of a cooking system including a movementmechanism according to an embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 24A is an end view of a mechanism for moving the food supportelements of the cooking system when the cooking system is in the firstcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 24B is an end view of the mechanism of FIG. 24A when the cookingsystem is in the second cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of a mechanism for moving the foodsupport elements of the cooking system when the cooking system is in thefirst cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 25B is a perspective view of the mechanism of FIG. 25A when thecooking system is in the second cooking orientation according to anembodiment;

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a cooking system is in the firstcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 26B is a perspective view of a movement mechanism of the cookingsystem of FIG. 26A according to an embodiment;

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a cooking system is in the firstcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 27B is a perspective view of a movement mechanism of the cookingsystem of FIG. 27A according to an embodiment;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a locking mechanism of the cookingsystem when the cooking system is in the first cooking orientationaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 29A is an end view of a locking mechanism of the cooking systemwhen the cooking system is in the first cooking orientation according toan embodiment;

FIG. 29B is an end view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 29A when thecooking system is in the second cooking orientation according to anembodiment;

FIG. 30 is a side view of a locking mechanism of FIG. 29A when thecooking system is in the first cooking orientation according to anembodiment;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view a cooking system in a second cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 32 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of the cookingsystem of FIG. 31 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view a cooking system in a second cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 34A is a side view a portion of a cooking system in a secondcooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 34B is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 34A accordingto an embodiment;

FIG. 35A is a perspective view an engaging mechanism of the cookingsystem according to an embodiment;

FIG. 35B is a perspective side view of the engaging mechanism of FIG.35A according to an embodiment;

FIG. 36A is a perspective view an engaging mechanism of the cookingsystem according to another embodiment;

FIG. 36B is a perspective side view of the engaging mechanism of FIG.36A according to an embodiment;

FIG. 37A is a perspective view an accessory configured for use with thecooking system according to another embodiment;

FIG. 37B is a perspective side view of the accessory and an engagingmechanism according to an embodiment;

FIG. 38A is a perspective view an accessory configured for use with thecooking system according to another embodiment;

FIG. 38B is a perspective side view of the accessory installed withinthe cooking system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of the interior of the cooking system ina second cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view a cooking system in a second cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 41A is a perspective view a cooking system in a first cookingorientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 41B is a perspective view the cooking system of FIG. 41A in asecond cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 42A is a perspective view of a locking mechanism when the cookingsystem is in a first cooking orientation according to an embodiment;

FIG. 42B is a perspective view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 42A whenthe cooking system is transforming between a first cooking orientationand a second cooking orientation according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 42C is a perspective view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 42A whenthe cooking system is in a second cooking orientation according to anembodiment.

The detailed description explains embodiments of the disclosure,together with advantages and features, by way of example with referenceto the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference now to FIGS. 1-4, various examples of a cooking system 20suitable for use on a support surface 22, such as a countertop forexample, are illustrated. The cooking system 20 includes a thermallyinsulated housing 24 having an internal cooking compartment or cookingvolume 26. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the housing 24includes a left side 28, a right side 30, a front 32, a back 34, and abottom 36 connected to one another such that the cooking compartment 26is located there between. In an embodiment, the housing 24 additionallyincludes a top 38 through which the cooking compartment 26 is accessedby a user. However, it should be understood that embodiments where thehousing 24 does not include a top 38, or alternatively, includes an atleast partially movable top 38, such as a door for example, are alsowithin the scope of the disclosure.

As shown, the top 38 of the housing 24 may extend between the left andright sides 28, 30, respectively, and between the front 32 and the back34, respectively. In such embodiments, an opening 40 for providingaccess to the cooking compartment 26 of the housing 24 is formed in thetop 38. Although the opening 40 is illustrated in the FIGS. as beingexposed to the ambient atmosphere, it should be understood thatembodiments where the housing 24 additionally includes a door (notshown) or another component(s) movable to selectively seal the opening40 formed in the top 38 are also within the scope of the disclosure.Further, the housing 24 is illustrated and described herein as anexternal housing of the cooking system 20. As a result, one or moreradiant cases may be located between an interior surface of the housing24 and the cooking compartment 26; however, it should be understood thatin other embodiments, the housing 24 described herein may alternativelyrefer to an internal housing disposed within a separate external case orhousing.

As best shown in FIGS. 5a, 5b, 11a, 11b, 12b, 13a, and 13b , at leastone food support element 42 is operable to position and retain a fooditem in the cooking compartment 26. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, the at least one food support element 42 includes a firstfood support element 42 a positioned within the cooking compartment 26generally adjacent to a first interior surface 46 thereof and a secondfood support element 42 b positioned within the cooking compartment 26generally adjacent to an opposite, second interior surface 48 thereof.In an embodiment, the first and second food support elements 42 a, 42 bcooperate to form a cage. A gap 50 for receiving a food item is definedbetween the first food support element 42 a and the second food supportelement 42 b. At least one of the first food support element 42 a andthe second food support element 42 b defines a support surface operableto contact a surface of a food item installed within the gap 50. Thefirst and second food support elements 42 a, 42 b may be formed from anysuitable thermally conductive material, such as metal, and morespecifically wire for example. Further, a configuration of the first andsecond food support elements 42 a, 42 b may be substantially identical,or alternatively may be different. It should be understood that the atleast one food support element 42 illustrated and described herein isintended as an example only. A cooking system 20 having any numberand/or configuration of food support elements arranged within theinternal cooking compartment 26, such as a single food support elementor more than two food support elements for example, are also within thescope of the disclosure.

In an embodiment, a support bar or member 52 (see FIGS. 8, and 11 a-13a) is also arranged within the cooking compartment 26 and is configuredto support a food item against gravity. As shown, the support member 52may extend across the internal cooking compartment 26, between the leftside 28 and the right side 30 for example, and may additionally span thegap 50 defined between the first and second food support elements 42 a,42 b. In an embodiment, the support member 52 includes a plurality ofteeth 54 extending in opposite directions towards the first and secondfood support elements 42 a, 42 b, respectively. Although the teeth 54are illustrated as being angled upwardly in a direction towards theopening 40, embodiments where one or more of the teeth 54 have agenerally horizontal configuration are also contemplated herein.Further, the opposing teeth 54 may be generally aligned, oralternatively, may be offset from one another. It should be understoodthat the support member 52 illustrated and described herein is intendedas an example only, and that a support member 52 having anotherconfiguration, such as formed from a piece of rectangular material (seeFIG. 7) for example, is also within the scope of the disclosure.

A movement mechanism 56 may be used to move the support member 52 withinthe cooking compartment 26 between an inactive position, such as nearthe opening 40 for example (see FIGS. 11a, 12a, and 13a ) and an activeposition, for example near the bottom 36 of the housing 24 (see FIGS.11b, 12b, and 13b ). Transformation of the support member 52 from theinactive position to the active position is configured to locate asubstantial entirety of a food item within the cooking compartment 26,in the gap 50 defined between the food support elements 42. Further, insome embodiments, the movement mechanism 56 may be operable to transformthe support member 52 from an active position to an inactive position,to substantially remove a food item from the cooking compartment 26. Adistance between the support member 52 and the opening 40 is greaterwhen in the active position than when the support member 52 is in theinactive position. In an embodiment, a biasing mechanism 57 (see FIGS.13a and 13b ) is coupled to the support member 52 and is configured tobias the support member 52 toward the inactive position.

In an embodiment, a user may manually translate the support member 52within the cooking compartment 26 via the movement mechanism 56. Anexample of such a manual movement mechanism 56 is a load/eject lever. Asshown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the lever is movable relative to the housing 24,for example translatable within a slot 58 formed at a respective side ofthe housing 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a firstportion of the lever 56 is directly or indirectly connected to thesupport member 52 and another portion of the lever 56, such as a paddle60 for example, is arranged adjacent an exterior of the housing 24 andforms a user interface of the movement mechanism 56. The lever 56additionally includes a rod 62 oriented parallel to the slot 58. The rod62 defines an axis of translation of the lever 56. Although the rod 62is illustrated as extending generally vertically between the bottom 36and the top 38 of the housing 24, embodiments where the rod 62 isoriented at an angle thereto are also contemplated herein. To operatethe movement mechanism 56, a user applies a force to the paddle 60 tomanually move the lever 56, and therefore the support member 52, fromthe inactive position to the active position.

With reference now to FIG. 8-10 b, in an alternative embodiment, themovement mechanism 56 is configured to automatically move the supportmember 52 between the inactive and the active position in response to auser input. In such embodiments, the movement mechanism 56 may include amotor or other actuation device 64 operably coupled to the supportmember 52. As shown, the movement mechanism 56 may additionally includea sliding element 66 connected to the support member 52 and configuredto translate vertically along one or more rods 62. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, a connecting member 68 extending from the motor64 is coupled to the sliding element 66. Further, an input 70 configuredto operate the motor 64, such as a button for example, is located at theexterior of the housing 24, for access by a user. In response toapplication of a force to the input 70 by a user, the motor 64 willrotate the connecting member 68, which in turn causes the slidingelement 66 and the support member 52 to translate along the axis definedby the at least one rod 62. The motor 64 may be bidirectional, such thatthe support member 52 can be both lowered (FIG. 10a ) and raised (FIG.10b ) automatically by the movement mechanism 56 in response to an input70. The motor 64 may additionally be operable in response to a command,for example indicating when a cooking operation has been completed,generated by a processor of the cooking system 20. The connectiondefined between the motor 64 and the support member 52 illustrated anddescribed herein is intended as an example only, and it should beunderstood that any suitable configuration of the movement mechanism 56that is capable of automatically moving the support member 52 within thecooking compartment 26 is contemplated herein. Further, any type ofconnection between the motor 64 and the support member 52, includingembodiments where the motor or actuation device 64 is configured totranslate rather than rotate, is within the scope of the disclosure.

At least one biasing mechanism may be operably coupled to one or more ofthe food support elements 42 a, 42 b. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, the same biasing mechanism 57 (FIGS. 13a and 13b ) coupledto the support member 52 is also coupled to the food support elements 42a, 42 b. The biasing force of the at least one biasing mechanism 57defines a neutral position of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b, andtherefore the neutral gap 50 between the food support elements 42 a, 42b. As a result, the food support elements 42 a, 42 b may be configuredto further separate, thereby increasing the gap 50, to accommodate afood item that is greater than the neutral gap 50. Upon removal of sucha food, the biasing force of the at least one biasing mechanism 57 willcause the food support elements 42 a, 42 b to return to the neutralposition.

In an embodiment, the gap 50 defined between the first and second foodsupport elements 42 a, 42 b is configured to change in response tomovement of the support member 52 within the cooking compartment 26. Forexample, when the support member 52 is in the inactive position (FIGS.11a, 12a, and 13a ), the neutral gap 50 is generally uniform over theheight of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b. In an embodiment, theneutral gap 50 is approximately 35 mm. When the support member 52 islowered to the active position (FIGS. 11b, 12b, and 13b ), at least oneof the first and second food support elements 42 a, 42 b is moved toreduce the gap 50 and restrict movement of a food item positionedbetween the food support elements 42 a, 42 b.

In an embodiment, the food support elements 42 a, 42 b are configured torotate about an axis in response to movement of the support member 52 tothe active position. As a result of this rotation, the gap 50 variesover the height of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b (best shown inFIG. 12b ). In an embodiment, the ends of the food support elements 42a, 42 b closest to the opening 40 are configured to rotate inwardly. Insuch embodiments, the narrowest portion of the gap 50 defined betweenthe food support elements 42 a, 42 b (and without a food item positionedwithin the gap 50) may be about 5 mm. In other embodiments, one or moreof the food support elements 42 a, 42 b may be configured to translatehorizontally (FIG. 11b ) in response to movement of the support member52 to the active position.

This movement of at least one of the food support elements 42 a, 42 bmay be driven by the support member 52. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, a post or other elongated member 72 associated with acorresponding food support element 42 is positioned within one or moreslots or openings 74 formed in a panel or portion of a radiant casing,identified at 76 in FIGS. 11a-13b , adjacent a side of the cookingcompartment 26. The at least one post 72 may be integrally formed withthe food support element 42 a, 42 b, or alternatively, may be part of aseparate component connected to a food support element 42 a, 42 b.

The at least one opening 74 may have any suitable configuration, such asa horizontal configuration, an angled configuration, or an arcuateconfiguration for example. The configuration of the openings 74 at leastpartially defines the movement of the food support element 42 associatedtherewith. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, each foodsupport element 42 a, 42 b has at least one post 72, for example twoposts, associated therewith. However, any suitable number of posts 72and openings 74, including a single post and opening, or more than twoposts and openings are contemplated herein. In such embodiments, thefood support elements 42 a, 42 b may include an upper post and a lowerpost received within a corresponding elongated opening.

As the support member 52 moves between the inactive and activepositions, one or more of the posts 72 is configured to translate withina respective opening 74. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment ofFIGS. 11a and 11b , the openings 74 associated with the upper and lowerposts 72 have a generally horizontal orientation and are parallel to oneanother. Further, as shown, the openings 74 associated with the upperand lower post 72 of each food support element 42 a, 42 b are equal inlength. According as the support member 52 moves to the active position,the biasing force of the biasing mechanism causes the posts 72 totranslate within the openings 74. Because each of the posts 72 isconfigured to move the same distance in response to the biasing force ofthe biasing mechanism, the food support elements 42 a, 42 b are orientedgenerally parallel when the support member 52 is in both the inactiveand active positions. In such embodiments, the gap 50 is generallyconstant over the height of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b whenthe support member 52 is in both the inactive and active positions.

In embodiments where at least one of the first and second food supportelements 42 a, 42 b is configured to rotate in response to movement ofthe support member 52, the rotation of the food support elements 42 a,42 b may occur as a result of movement of some, but not all of the postsassociated with each food support element 42 a, 42 b. In thenon-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 12a-12b , a fixed pin 75 is arrangedadjacent an end, such as the end closest to the bottom 36 of the housing24 for example, of each food support element 42 a, 42 b. In addition,the plurality of openings 74 are arcuate in shape. Because the lower endof each of the food support element 42 a, 42 b is restricted from movingoutwardly by the pin 75, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 57applied to the food support element 42 a, 42 b when the support memberis in the active position causes the upper end of each food supportelement 42 a, 42 b to rotate inwardly, while the lower end of each foodsupport element 42 a, 42 b remains stationary.

In another embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 13a and 13b , the foodsupport elements 42 a, 42 b are configured to translate and pivot withinthe internal cooking compartment 26 in response to movement of thesupport member 52 to the active position. As shown, each of the openings74 has a generally horizontal configuration. However, a length of theopenings 74 that receive and define a path of movement of the upperposts 72 is greater than the length of the openings 74 that receive anddefine a path of movement of the lower posts 72. Accordingly, when thesupport member 52 is lowered to the active position, the biasingmechanism 57 will cause the food support elements 42 a, 42 b totranslate in a generally parallel configuration until the lower posts 72abut an end of their respective openings 74. Although further movementof the lower posts is prevented, the biasing force of the biasingmechanism will cause the upper posts 72 to continue to translate withinthe openings 74. This additional movement of the upper posts 72 resultsin a pivoting of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b. In embodimentswhere the food support elements 42 a, 42 b are configured to translateand pivot, the gap 50 when the support member 52 is in the activeposition is non-uniform over the height of the food support elements 42a, 42 b. Further, the gap 50 adjacent both the upper and lower ends ofthe food support elements 42 a, 42 b when the support member 52 is inthe active position is less than the gap 50 adjacent the upper and lowerends of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b when the support member 52is in the inactive position.

The cooking compartment 26 is heated by at least one heating element.With continued reference to FIGS. 11a-13b , in the illustrated,non-limiting embodiments, the cooking system 20 includes one or morefirst heating elements 78 positioned within the cooking compartment 26,for example adjacent the back 34 of the housing 24. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, the cooking system 20 includes a plurality offirst heating elements 78, such as three first heating elements forexample, oriented horizontally and generally parallel to the front andback 32, 34, and spaced over the height of the cooking compartment 26.It should be understood that any number and configuration of the firstheating elements 78 is contemplated herein.

Alternatively, or in addition, at least one second heating element 80may be positioned within the cooking compartment 26, for exampleadjacent the front 32 of the housing 24. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, the cooking system 20 includes a plurality ofsecond heating elements 80, such as three second heating elements forexample, oriented generally parallel to the front and back 32, 34 andspaced over the height of the cooking compartment 26. The first heatingelements 78 and the second heating elements 80 may be generally aligned,or may be staggered relative to one another.

It should be understood that although the heating elements 78, 80 of thecooking system 20 are illustrated and described as being positionedwithin the cooking compartment 26 generally adjacent the front 32 andthe back 34 of the housing 24, embodiments where the cooking system 20alternatively or additionally includes one or more heating elements (notshown) located within the cooking compartment adjacent a side 28, 30, orthe bottom 36 of the housing, or within a center of the cookingcompartment 26 are also contemplated herein. Further, embodiments whereone or more of the heating elements 78, 80 extend vertically between thetop 38 and bottom 36 are also within the scope of the disclosure.Additionally, it should be understood that the cooking compartment 26may alternatively, or additionally, be heated by one or more heatingelements (not shown) located remotely from the cooking compartment 26.

The one or more heating elements 78, 80 of the cooking system 20 may beselected to perform any suitable type of heating, including but notlimited to, conduction, convection, radiation, and induction. Further,the heat output across one or more of the heating elements 78, 80 mayvary. In an embodiment, one or more of the heating elements 78, 80 has anon-uniform construction, for example including a coiled wire arrangedwithin a tube which heats and emits radiation when power is suppliedthereto. By varying the spacing between adjacent coils over the lengthof the heating element 78, 80, the amount of heat emitted at variousportions of the heating element 78, 80 may be greater than others.However, embodiments where the heat output by one or more of the heatingelements 78, 80 is constant over the length of the heating element arealso within the scope of the disclosure.

A control panel or user interface 82 for operating the cooking system 20may be mounted to an exterior portion of the housing 24, such as the top38 for example (see FIGS. 1, 15, 25 a, 25 b, 26 a, 27 a, 31, 34 b and40. Alternatively, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 18, the cooking system20 may include a component 84 movably mounted to the housing 24, and atleast a portion of the control panel 82 may be coupled to or integratedinto the movable component 84. In an embodiment, the movable component84 is a handle pivotally mounted to opposing sides of the housing 24,such as the left side 28 and the right side 30 for example.

The control panel 82 is part of a control system 86 that is electricallyconnected to the one or more heating elements 78, 80. A schematicdiagram of the control system 86 is illustrated in FIG. 14. The controlpanel 82 includes one or more inputs 88 associated with energizing oroperation of the one or more heating elements 78, 80 of the cookingsystem 20 and for selecting various modes of operation of the cookingsystem 20. One or more of the inputs 88 may include a light or otherindicator to show a user that the respective input 88 has been selected.The control panel 82 may additionally include a display 90 separate fromand associated with the at least one input 88. However, embodimentswhere the display 90 and the at least one input 88 are integrated arealso contemplated herein.

Operation of the one or more inputs 88 will be described in more detailbelow. As shown in FIG. 14, the control system 86 includes a controlleror processor, illustrated schematically at 92, for controlling operationof the heating elements 78, 80 in response to a user input provided viathe one or more inputs 88 and for using algorithms to execute storedsequences of heating operation. In embodiments where the cooking system20 includes a plurality of heating elements, the heating elements 78, 80may be independently operable. Further, the heating output of one ormore of the heating elements 78, 80 may be variable in response to thepower supplied to the heating elements 78, 80. The control system 86 mayinclude one or more sensors arranged in communication with the processor92 and operable to monitor one or more parameters of the cooking system20, for example temperature within the cooking compartment 26. In someembodiments, the cooking system may additionally include an air movementdevice, such as a fan for example, to move a fluid through the cookingcompartment 26 to achieve a convection operation. In such embodiments,the air movement device is operably coupled to and controlled by theprocessor 92.

In an embodiment, at least one input 88 on the control panel 82 is anon/off button which allows the user to activate or deactivate thecontrol panel 82. When the control panel 82 is deactivated, none of theheating elements 78, 80 are energized. In an embodiment, the at leastone input 88 is operable to select one or more manual modes of operationof at least one of the heating elements 78, 80. Alternatively, or inaddition, at least one input 88 is operable to select a stored sequenceof operation of at least one heating element 78, 80. In some cases, thestored sequences may be particularly well suited for a given method offood preparation and/or for particular ingredients or types ofingredients. The plurality of stored sequences associated with the atleast one input 88 may be stored within a memory accessible by theprocessor 92. Alternatively, the plurality of stored sequences may bestored remotely from the cooking system 20, and may be accessed by theprocessor 92, such as via wireless communication for example.

In addition, a user may be able to enter or select a time associatedwith operation of the cooking system 20 in a desired manual mode. Thetime may be entered via the same input 88, or a separate input 88 asused to select a mode of operation. Further in embodiments where thecooking system 20 is in a mode configured to perform a stored sequencein response to selection of one of the inputs, the display 90 mayindicate a time remaining Temperature or other parameters, such astoasting color for example, may also be entered via inputs 88.

The at least one input 88 may include a distinct start button intendedto initiate operation in a desired mode, a distinct stop button to ceaseall operation, or a stop/start button intended to initiate and ceasefunctions. Alternatively, the cooking system 20 may be operable toautomatically start operation after a predetermined time has elapsedonce an input has been selected and any necessary information has beenprovided to the control panel 82. One or more of the other inputs 88,such as a knob for example, may be operable, such as by pushing the knobtowards the control panel 82, to start and stop operation of the cookingsystem 20, regardless of whether the cooking system 20 is following astored sequence or is in a manual mode.

The one or more inputs 88 are operable to initiate operation of thecooking system 20 in a plurality of cooking modes. Examples of modes ofoperation of the cooking system 20 include, but are not limited to,toast, bake, broil, warm, and reheat. Independent control of the heatingelements 78, 80 allows a user to configure a cooking/heating cycle basedon the type of food item positioned within the cooking compartment 26.

In an embodiment, the cooking system 20 is transformable between a firstorientation or configuration (FIGS. 1-4 and 19), and a secondorientation or configuration (FIGS. 15-18 and 20). However it should beunderstood that the cooking system 20 may perform a cooking operation ormay be inactive or “stowed” in either the first orientation or thesecond orientation. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiments, thehousing 24 of the cooking system 20 is rotatable about a pivot axis Sbetween the first orientation and the second orientation. In the firstorientation, the housing 24 and the cooking compartment 26 have agenerally vertical orientation, similar to a conventional toaster. As aresult, the heating elements 78, 80 of the cooking system 20 have afirst orientation, such as being spaced vertically for example. Asshown, in the first orientation, at least one of the top 38 includingthe opening 40 formed therein and the bottom 36 of the housing 24 isarranged generally parallel to the support surface 22 on which thecooking system 20 is located, and the front 32 is oriented generallyperpendicular to the support surface 22.

The cooking system 20 is rotatable about the pivot axis S in a firstdirection, indicated by arrow A (see FIG. 24a, 25a ), toward the secondorientation. In an embodiment, the cooking system 20 is rotatableapproximately ninety degrees between the first orientation and thesecond orientation. However, it should be understood that embodimentswhere the cooking system 20 is configured to rotate greater than ninetydegrees, or alternatively, less than ninety degrees, between the firstorientation and the second orientation are also within the scope of thedisclosure. In the second orientation, the housing 24 and the cookingcompartment 26 are oriented generally horizontally, similar to aconventional countertop oven. As a result, the heating elements 78, 80of the cooking system 20 have a second orientation, such as a horizontalorientation where the first and second heating elements 78, 80 arespaced within a horizontally oriented plane for example, when thecooking system 20 is in the second orientation. Further, in the secondorientation, at least one of the back 34 and the front 32 is orientedgenerally parallel to the support surface 22 and the top 38 and/orbottom 36 of the housing 24 is oriented generally perpendicular to thesupport surface 22.

From the second orientation, the housing 24 of the cooking system 20 isrotatable about the pivot axis S in a second direction, indicated byarrow B (see FIG. 24b, 25b ), toward the first orientation. As thecooking system 20 transforms between the first orientation and thesecond orientation, the top 38 and/or the opening 40 rotates out ofplane, such as from a first plane to a second plane distinct from thefirst plane. Because the projected surface area of the housing 24 ontosupport surface 22 when in the first orientation is substantiallysmaller than the projected surface area of the housing 24 onto supportsurface 22 when in the second orientation, the surface area of thesupport surface 22 occupied by the cooking system 20 when the cookingsystem 20 is in the first orientation is minimized.

In an embodiment, the pivot axis S is positioned near an edge of thehousing 24. For example, the pivot axis S is shown being locatedadjacent a bottom corner of the housing 24, near the interface betweenthe bottom 36 and the front 32, or alternatively, near the interfacebetween the bottom 36 and the back 34. However, it should be understoodthat embodiments where the pivot axis S is arranged along another edgeof the housing 24, such as adjacent the interface between the bottom anda side 28, 30 for example, are also contemplated herein.

The pivot axis S may be defined by a pivot structure 94 coupled to orintegrally formed with the housing 24. Accordingly, the pivot structure94 locates at least a portion of the housing 24 relative to the supportsurface 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 2-3,16, and 17, the pivot structure 94 includes a component rotatablyaffixed to the bottom 36 of the housing 24. When the cooking system 20is in the first orientation, the body 96 of the pivot structure 94 isdisposed between the bottom 36 of the housing 24 and the support surface22, and when the cooking system 20 is rotated about the pivot axis S tothe second orientation, the cooking system 20 may be supported in acantilevered configuration by the pivot structure 94. However, in otherembodiments, one or more feet (not shown) may extend from a portion ofthe housing 24, such as from the front 32 of the housing 24 for example.These feet may cooperate with the pivot structure 94 to position thecooking system 20 on the support surface 22 in either the first or thesecond orientation.

In another embodiment, best shown in FIGS. 1, 6, 15, 19-21 the pivotstructure 94 includes one or more mounting brackets 98 coupled to thehousing 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pivotstructure 94 includes two separate mounting brackets 98, such asarranged at the left side 28 and right side 30 of the housing 24 forexample. However, embodiments including a single mounting bracket 98that extends between opposite sides of the housing 24 or two mountingbrackets 98 that are integrally formed or connected together are alsowithin the scope of the disclosure. The one or more mounting brackets 98are pivotally connected to the housing 24 to position the cooking system20 on the support surface 22. Accordingly, the one or more mountingbrackets 98 remain constant or stationary relative to the supportsurface 22 as the housing 24 rotates relative to the at least onemounting bracket 98. As shown, the housing 24 may be supported entirelyby the at least one mounting bracket 98, such as in a cantileveredconfiguration for example, in both the first orientation and the secondorientation.

In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 21, each of the mounting brackets98 includes a pin connector 100 receivable within a correspondingopening 102 formed in a side, such as sides 28 and 30 for example, ofthe housing 24. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pinconnectors 100 of the at least one mounting bracket 98, respectively,are coaxially oriented. Together, the pin connectors 100 cooperate todefine the pivot axis S. The pin connectors 100 may directly contact aninterior surface of the opening 102, or alternatively, a bearing (notshown) may be located at the interface between the pin connector 100 andthe opening 102 to facilitate movement of the housing 24 relative to thepin connectors 100. In an embodiment, the pin connectors 100 and/or theopenings 102 may be configured to restrict rotation of the housing 24about the pivot axis S to a position beyond the first orientation andthe second orientation. However, the rotation of the housing 24 aboutthe pivot axis S may be controlled or limited via any suitablemechanism.

In yet another embodiment, the pivot structure 94 may be a roundedfeature (not shown) arranged at an edge of the housing 24. However, therounded feature of the pivot structure 94 is distinct from the roundededges of the housing 24. In an embodiment, the pivot structure 94includes one or more arcuate features, such as ribs for example, locatedat an exterior surface of the housing 24 and extending between thebottom 36 and the rear wall 34. The origin of each of the arcuatefeatures may define the pivot axis S and the contour of the arcuatefeatures may facilitate rotation of the housing 24 by a user between thefirst position and the second position. It should be understood that thevarious embodiments of a pivot structure 94 illustrated and describedherein are intended as an example only, and that any suitableconfiguration that allows the housing 24 to transform between a firstorientation and a second orientation relative to the support surface 22is within the scope of the disclosure. Although as described herein, thehousing 24 is rotatable relative to the pivot structure 94 it should beunderstood that embodiments where the pivot structure is rotatablerelative to the housing 24 are also contemplated herein.

The cooking system 20 is operable in a plurality of cooking modes, andin an embodiment, one or more of the cooking modes available foroperation is dependent on an orientation of the cooking system 20. Forexample, when in the first orientation, the cooking system 20 isoperable to perform a first cooking operation. In an embodiment, thefirst cooking operation or mode includes a toasting operation where boththe first plurality of heating elements 78 and the second plurality ofheating elements 80 are energized. However, other cooking operationswhere only a portion of the heating elements 78, 80, such as one or moreof the first plurality of heating elements 78 and/or one or more of thesecond plurality of heating elements 80, are energized may also beperformed when the cooking system 20 is in the first orientation.

To use the cooking system 20 in the first orientation, a food item isinserted into the portion of the gap 50 between the first food supportelement 42 a and the second food support element 42 b. In the firstorientation, the first food support element 42 a defines a first supportsurface configured to contact a first side or surface of a food iteminstalled within the gap 50 and the second food support element 42 bdefines a second support surface operable to contact a second, oppositesurface of a food item installed within the gap 50. An end of the fooditem is typically arranged in contact with and supported against gravityby the support member 52. To properly position the food item within thegap 50 for a cooking operation, the support member 52, is translatedfrom the raised, inactive position to the lowered, active position byoperating the movement mechanism 56. When the food item is properlypositioned within the gap 50, a substantial portion, or in someembodiments, an entirety of the food item, is positioned within thecooking compartment 26 between the first food support element 42 a andthe second food support element 42 b, adjacent one or more heatingelements 78, 80.

In an embodiment, when the cooking system 20 is in the firstorientation, operation of the movement mechanism 56 and/or translationof the support member 52 to the active position automatically initiatesthe first cooking operation. For example, when the support member 52 orthe movement mechanism 56 associated therewith is moved to the activeposition, a signal may be generated and communicated to the processor 92to energize one or more of the plurality of heating elements 78, 80,and/or a timer. In an embodiment, operation of the movement mechanism56, such as movement of the lever to the lowered position, operates aswitch (not shown), thereby completing a circuit for delivering power toone or more components of the cooking system 20.

With reference now to FIG. 22, an electromagnetic catch 104 operablycoupled to the processor 92 may be located adjacent a portion of thesupport member 52 or an end of the slot 58. A magnetic field generatedby the electromagnetic catch 104 when energized may cooperate with aportion of the movement mechanism 56 to retain the movement mechanism 56and/or support member 52 in the lowered position. In an embodiment, theattraction between a portion of the movement mechanism 56 and/or thesupport member 52 and the electromagnetic catch 104 is sufficient tooppose a biasing force of a biasing mechanism 57 acting on the movementmechanism 56.

With continued reference to FIG. 22, in an embodiment where the movementmechanism 56 is a manually translatable lever, the paddle 60 includes afirst portion 106 and a second portion 108. The first and secondportions 106, 108 are removably connected to one another via anysuitable coupling mechanism 109, including but not limited to a magnetfor example. In such embodiments, the support member 52 may beassociated with or connected to the first portion 106 of the paddle 60.To initiate the first cooking operation, both the first portion 106 andthe second portion 108 are moved as a single unit from the inactiveposition to the active position. In the active position, the secondportion 108 of the paddle 60 engages the switch. Additionally, theelectromagnetic catch 104 may be configured to cooperate with the secondportion 108 to retain the second portion 108 in the lowered position aspreviously described.

During the first cooking operation, the first portion 106 of the paddle60 may be selectively decoupled from the second portion 108, such as viaapplication of a force thereto. When the first portion 106 is decoupledfrom the second portion 108, the support member 52 connected to thefirst portion 106 may be translated within the slot 58 to the raisedposition, causing at least a portion of the food item within the gap 50to move out of the cooking compartment 26. In this raised position, auser can view the food item to determine a cooking status thereof, suchas a color or doneness of the food item, without interrupting the firstcooking operation. However, it should be understood that a paddle 60having only a single piece translatable relative to the slot 58 is alsowithin the scope of the disclosure.

As noted previously, when the cooking system 20 is in the secondorientation, the cooking system 20 is operable to perform a secondcooking operation. Examples of the second cooking operation include, butare not limited to baking, broiling, heating, warming, and reheating forexample. Depending on the second cooking operation selected to beperformed, all or a portion of the heating elements 78, 80 of thecooking system 20 are energized. For example, one or more of the firstplurality of heating elements 78 may be energized, one or more of thesecond plurality of heating elements 80 may be energized, or at leastone of both the first plurality of heating elements 78 and the secondplurality of heating elements 80 may be energized.

As the cooking system 20 transforms between the first orientation andthe second orientation, the at least one food support element 42 a, 42 bis configured to move between a first position (see FIGS. 5A and 41 a)and a second position (see FIGS. 5B and 41 b). When the cooking system20 is in the first orientation, the at least one food support element 42a, 42 b is arranged at a first, extended position relative to thecooking compartment 26. For example, the first food support element 42 ais offset from the first interior surface 46 by a distance and thesecond food support element 42 b is also offset from the second interiorsurface 48 by a distance. The distance between each of the first andsecond food support elements 42 a, 42 b and a respective interiorsurface 46, 48 may, but need not be the same.

When the cooking system 20 is transformed to the second orientation, theat least one food support element 42 is moved to a second, retractedposition relative to the cooking compartment 26. Accordingly, thedistance defined between the first interior surface 46 and the firstfood support element 42 a and/or the distance between the secondinterior surface 48 and the second food support element 42 b when thecooking system 20 is in the second orientation is reduced compared towhen the cooking system 20 is in the first orientation. As a result, thegap 50 defined between the first and second food support elements 42 a,42 b when the cooking system 20 is in the second orientation is greaterthan the gap 50 when the cooking system 20 is in the first orientation(regardless of whether the support member 52 is in an active or inactiveposition). In an embodiment, the 50 between the first and second foodsupport elements 42 a, 42 b in the first, extended position is about 35mm, and the gap 50 between the first and second food support elements 42a, 42 b in the second, retracted position is about 72 mm.

By increasing the gap 50 when the cooking system 20 is in the secondorientation, larger food items may be received within the cookingcompartment 26. As a result, a food item having one or more toppingspositioned thereon, such as a piece of bread having a piece of cheesestacked thereon for example, may be inserted into the cookingcompartment 26 without interference with an adjacent food supportelement 42. When the housing 24 is in the second orientation, the secondfood support element 42 b, arranged adjacent the front 32 of the housing24 may be used to the support a food item within the cooking compartment26. The second food support element 42 b may directly support a fooditem, such that the food item is placed upon or in contact with thesecond food support element 42 b for example. Alternatively, or inaddition, the second food support element 42 b may indirectly support afood item, such that an accessory or insert is positioned between thesecond food support element 42 b and the food item to be cooked.Accordingly, the first food support element 42 a may simply provide abarrier to prevent direct contact with the one or more adjacent heatingelements 78.

The cooking system 20 may include a mechanism 110 for automaticallymoving the at least one food support element 42 between the extendedposition and the retracted position when the cooking system 20 istransformed between the first orientation and the second orientation.The mechanism 110 may be the same mechanism, or a different mechanismthan that used to move the food support elements 42 a, 42 b in responseto movement of the support member 52. With reference now to FIGS. 24aand 24b , an example of such a mechanism 110 is illustrated in moredetail. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, one or more posts72 associated with a corresponding food support element 42 are receivedwithin one or more openings 74 formed in a panel or radiant casing 76adjacent a side of the cooking compartment 26. For example, each foodsupport element 42 a, 42 b may have two posts associated therewith.

In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment shown, the openings 74 havea generally arcuate contour; however, openings 74 having any suitableshape are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, the openings74 of the mechanism 110 illustrated in FIGS. 25a-25b have a generallylinear or horizontal configuration. As previously described, theopenings 74 define a path of movement of the posts 72 and therefore thefood support elements 42 a, 42 b, within the cooking compartment 26. Forexample, when the food support elements 42 a, 42 b are in the extendedposition, the posts 72 of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b arearranged at a first position within each of the openings 74, such asadjacent a first end thereof. Similarly, when the food support elements42 a, 42 b are in the retracted position, the posts 72 are located at asecond position within the openings 74, such as adjacent a second,opposite end thereof.

In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 24a and 24b , acentral support rod 112 is mounted to a surface of the panel or radiantcasing and extends parallel to the gap 50. A support wedge 114 isslidably mounted to the support rod 112. A mount 116 arranged within theinterior of the housing 24 and fixed to the pivot structure 94 isconnected to the support wedge 114 by a connecting member 118, such as arod for example. In an embodiment, when the cooking system 20 is in thefirst orientation, the support wedge 114 does not engage or interactwith the posts 72, which are located at the first position, associatedwith the food support elements 42 a, 42 b in the extended position.

In the embodiment of the mechanism 110 illustrated in FIGS. 25a and 25b, the mechanism 110 includes a cam plate 120 instead of a support wedge114. The cam plate 120 additionally includes a plurality of slots 122formed therein, and at least a portion of the posts 72, such as thelower posts for example, extend through both the openings 74 and theslots 122. As shown, the slots 122 of the cam plate 120 have a differentconfiguration than the adjacent openings 74, such as an angledconfiguration corresponding to a wedging surface 126 of the cam plate120. Similar to the support wedge 114, when the cam plate 120 is in thefirst position, the food support elements 42 a, 42 b are able totransform between the positions associated with the support member 52 inthe inactive and active positions. In an embodiment, one or moreprotrusions 124 extending from the cam plate 120 define a stop positionof the food support elements 42 a, 42 b in a direction opposite the biasof the biasing mechanism 57 when the support member 52 is in theinactive position.

As the housing 24 of the cooking system 20 is rotated about the pivotaxis S from the first orientation to the second orientation, the mount116 remains stationary. As a result, the connecting member 118 couplingthe mount 116 to the support wedge 114 or cam plate 120 applies a forceto the support wedge 114 or cam plate 120, causing the support wedge 114or cam plate 120 to translate laterally along the axis defined by thesupport rod 112. In an embodiment, the support wedge 114 or cam plate120 is configured to translate approximately 20 mm in response torotation of the housing 24 of the cooking system 20 about the pivot axisS.

With respect to embodiments of the mechanism 110 including the supportwedge 114 (FIGS. 23-24 b), engagement between at least one wedgingsurface 126 of the support wedge 114 and the posts 72 exerts an outwardforce on the posts 72. In response to this force, the posts 72 movewithin the pathway defined by the respective openings 74, causing thefood support elements 42 a, 42 b to transform to the retracted position.In the embodiments of the mechanism 110 including the cam plate 120(FIGS. 25a and 25b ), as the cam plate 120 translates, a wedging surface126 thereof is configured to exert an outward force on the upper posts72. As a result of the configuration of the slots 122, each lower post72 is configured to translate outwardly.

Upon rotating the housing 24 back to the first orientation, the one ormore wedging surfaces 126 will move out of engagement with the posts 72.Upon removing the force from the posts 72, the food support elements 42a, 42 b may be configured to return to the extended position within thecooking compartment 26 via gravity. However, in other embodiments, abiasing mechanism (not shown) may facilitate movement of the foodsupport elements 42 a, 42 b back to the extended position.

In another embodiment, the movement mechanism 56 associated with thesupport member 52 is also operable to move the at least one food supportelement 42 between the extended position and the retracted position. Insuch embodiments, the movement mechanism 56 may be configured to movethe at least one food support element 42 prior to rotating the cookingsystem 20. In such embodiments, the movement mechanism 56 is a manuallyoperable mechanism, such as a lever as previously described. Withreference to FIGS. 26a-27b , during operation in a first cooking mode,the portion of the lever arranged adjacent the exterior of the housing24, such as the paddle 60, has a first configuration. In theillustrated, non-limiting embodiment, an opening cam 128 is connected tothe lever 56, such as at a position within the housing 24, external tothe cooking compartment 26. In addition, at least one slide plate 130 ismounted to the posts 72 extending from the food support elements 42 a,42 b, generally adjacent the opening cam 128. The slide plates 130 areconfigured to move with the posts 72 relative to the at least one slotor opening 74.

Prior to transformation of the housing 24 to the second configuration,the paddle 60 or portion of the lever 56 that is accessible by a user isconfigured to rotate about an axis. In an embodiment, the paddle 60 isconfigured to rotate about 90 degrees between a generally horizontalorientation associated with an extended position of the food supportelements 42 a, 42 b, and a vertical orientation associated with aretracted position of the food support elements 42 a, 42 b. In anembodiment, when the paddle 60 is in a generally horizontalconfiguration, the opening cam 128 has a generally vertical orientationand is not in contact with the one or more slide plates 130, and whenthe paddle 60 is in a generally vertical orientation, the opening cam128 has a generally horizontal orientation. As the paddle 60 is rotatedabout its axis, the opening cam 128 rotates into contact with the one ormore slide plates 130. The force applied to the slide plates 130 by theopening cam 128 causes the slide plates 130, and therefore the posts 72and the food support elements 42 a, 42 b connected thereto, totransition from the extended position to the retracted position.

The cooking system 20 may include a locking mechanism 132 configured tolock the support member 52 in the active position when the cookingsystem 20 is transformed to the second orientation. By positioning thesupport member 52 near the back of the cooking compartment 26 when thecooking system 20 is in the second orientation, the area within thecooking compartment 26 configured to receive food is maximized. Withreference now to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 28-30, the lockingmechanism 132 includes an actuator 134 that can selectively couple to aportion of the lever 56. Although the actuator 134 is illustrated asbeing arranged adjacent the lever 56 when in the lowered position, anactuator 134 arranged at any location about the housing 24 is within thescope of the disclosure. In an embodiment, the actuator 134 is apush-push button operable to selectively extend a shaft 136 viaapplication of a force to the actuator 134 in a first direction and toretract the shaft 136 via application of another force to the actuator134 in the same first direction.

A slider 138 or other component may be connected to and/or extend fromthe lever 56. Accordingly, the slider 138 is configured to translatewith the lever 56 relative to the slot 58. When the lever 56 is in thelowered position, application of a force to the actuator 134 of thelocking mechanism 132 causes the shaft 136 to extend into an openingformed in the slider 138. The engagement between the shaft 136 and theslider 138 restricts movement of the lever 56 from the lowered position.Once engaged, the housing 24 may be transformed from the firstorientation to the second orientation. In addition, in an embodiment,when the locking mechanism 132 is active, for example when the shaft 136is engaged with the slider 138, the locking mechanism 132 preventsengagement of a switch associated with the lever 56, even though thelever 56 is in the lowered position. This prevents power from beingdelivered to the heating elements 78, 80 before a cooking operation isinitiated by a user. Once the housing 24 is transformed to the secondorientation, a second switch (not shown) is engaged, thereby allowingpower to be delivered to the heating elements 78, 80 to perform a secondcooking operation. Further, the locking mechanism 132 may be designed tolimit operation of the actuator 134. For example, in an embodiment, theactuator 134 may only be operated when the cooking system 20 is in thefirst orientation to prevent unintentional decoupling of the slider 138and the actuator 134.

Another example of a locking mechanism 132 of the cooking system isillustrated in FIGS. 42a-42c . As shown, the locking mechanism 132includes a locking component 170 mounted to a portion of the pivotstructure 94, such as within the housing 24 for example. The lockingcomponent 170 includes a locking feature 172, such as a protrusion forexample, extending outwardly therefrom. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment, the locking feature 172 extends upwardly, generally parallelto the movement of the lever 56 when the housing 24 is in the firstorientation. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 28-30, a slider 138 orother component may be connected to and/or extend from the lever 56.Accordingly, the slider 138 is configured to translate with the lever 56relative to the slot 58 and the one or more rods 62. As best shown inFIG. 42b , an engagement feature 174, such as a spring biased post forexample, extends from the slider 138 in the direction of the lockingcomponent 170. Although the engagement feature 174 is illustrated asextending generally perpendicular to the translational axis of theslider 38, embodiments where the engagement feature 174 has anotherorientation are also contemplated herein.

The locking feature 172 is axially aligned with the engagement feature174 of the slider 138. Further, a surface 176 of the locking feature 172may have a first configuration and a surface 178 of the engagementfeature 174 may have a second configuration complementary to the firstconfiguration. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the surfaces176, 178 of the locking feature 172 and engagement feature 174 arearranged at corresponding angles.

In operation, a relative rotation between the housing 24 and the pivotstructure 94 occurs. As a result, the locking component 170 is rotatedrelative to the lever 56. In the rotated position, the locking component170 extends towards the slider 138. As the lever 56 is moved downwardlytoward the active position of the support member 52, the engagementfeature 174 extending from the slider 138 contacts the locking feature172. As shown, the angled surface 178 of the engagement feature 174abuts the similarly angled surface 176 of the locking feature 172. Asthe slider 138 continues to move downwardly, the engagement over theangled surfaces 176, 178 applies a force to the engagement feature 174in a direction opposite the biasing force of a biasing mechanism (notshown) connected thereto. This force causes the engagement feature 174to retract inwardly toward the slider 138, thereby allowing the slider138 to move to a position beyond, for example vertically below, thelocking feature 172. Once the engagement feature 174 is out of contactwith the locking feature 172, the biasing force will cause theengagement feature 174 to return to an extended position. Engagementbetween another surface of the locking feature 172, and another surfaceof the engagement feature 174 retains the slider 138, and therefore thelever 56 and the support member 52, in the active position. To releasethe slider 138, the pivot structure 94 is rotated about the pivot axis Sin a second, opposite direction, thereby moving the locking feature 172out of the path of the engagement feature 174.

When the cooking system 20 is in the second orientation, one or morecooking accessories or inserts 140 configured to support a food item maybe installed within the cooking compartment 26. In an embodiment, bestshown in FIGS. 1-3 and 15-18, one or more of the cooking accessories140, such as a tray for example, may be stowed within a cavity or pocket142 formed in or in conjunction with one of the sides of the housing 24,such as the back 34 of the housing 24 for example. When positionedwithin the cavity 142, a portion of the accessory 140 may, but need notbe, flush with an exterior surface of the housing 24. Each of the one ormore cooking accessories 140 suitable for use with the cooking system 20may be supported within the cooking compartment 26 directly orindirectly by the second food support element 42 b.

With reference to FIGS. 31-37 b, the cooking system 20 may additionallyinclude an engaging mechanism configured to limit movement of theaccessory 140 in at least one direction within the cooking compartment26 and indicate to a user when the accessory is at the end of its pathof movement. The engaging mechanism, may but need not be located withinthe internal cooking compartment 26. With reference now to FIGS. 32 and33, in an embodiment, the engaging mechanism is a support feature 144,for example located near the bottom of the cooking compartment 26adjacent the second food support element 42 b when the cooking system 20is in the second horizontal configuration. In such embodiments, thesupport feature 144 may be integrally formed with the second foodsupport element 42 a, 42 b, or alternatively, may be located between theopening 40 and an end of the second food support element 42 b.

A configuration of the support feature 144 may be configured tocooperate with a corresponding support feature 146 formed in anaccessory 140 insertable into the cooking compartment 26 to properlyposition the accessory 140 within the cooking compartment 26. Forexample, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the supportfeature 144 is a rod having a non-linear configuration and an accessory140 mountable within the cooking compartment 26 has a complementarygroove 146 formed therein. When the accessory 140 is inserted into thecooking compartment 26, a raised portion of the rod is received withinthe groove 146. Any of the accessories 140 illustrated and describedherein may a support feature configured to cooperate with a supportfeature of the cooking system. Further, it should be understood that theconfiguration of the support features 144, 146 illustrated and describedherein are intended as an example only.

Alternatively, or in addition, a stop bar 148 (see FIGS. 34a and 34b )may be positioned within the cooking compartment 26, such as adjacent arear of the cooking compartment 26. The stop bar 148 is an engagingmechanism configured to define an end point or to prevent over travel ofan accessory 140 inserted into the cooking compartment 26. Engagementbetween the accessory and the stop bar 148 will indicate to a user thatthe accessory cannot be moved further in at least one direction. In anembodiment, best shown in FIG. 34A, the stop bar 148 is arrangedgenerally adjacent the teeth 54 of the support member 52 when thesupport member 52 is in the active position. However, embodiments wherethe stop bar 148 is arranged at another location relative to the supportmember 52 are also contemplated herein. In addition, the geometry of thestop bar 148 may be selected to limit movement of an accessory 140without interfering with the operation or functionality of the accessory140. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 34a and 34b , the stop bar148 is fixedly mounted within the cooking compartment 26.

The cooking system 20 may not be operable in the second orientationunless an accessory 140 is properly positioned within the cookingcompartment 26. In an embodiment, in addition to defining an end of apath of movement of an accessory 140, the stop bar 148 may be used toindicate to the cooking system 20 when an accessory 140 is properlypositioned within the cooking compartment 26. With reference to FIGS.35a and 35b , the stop bar 148 may be configured to move in response toinstallation of an accessory 140 within the cooking compartment 26. Inthe illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a slot 150 is formed in aradiation shield 76 at one or more sides of the cooking compartment 26.The stop bar 148 includes an elongated tab or protrusion 152 thatextends through the slot 150. A biasing mechanism (not shown), such as aspring for example, may be coupled to the stop bar 148 and configured tobias the stop bar 148 to an unloaded position where the protrusion 152is arranged adjacent a first end of the slot 150.

In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, as an accessory 140 isinserted into the cooking compartment 26, a portion of the accessory 140engages and applies a force to the stop bar 148. This force opposes thebias of the biasing mechanism, causing the stop bar 148 to translatewithin the cooking compartment 26 along a path defined by the slot 150.Further movement of the stop bar 148, and therefore the accessory 140,will be prohibited once the protrusion 152 of the stop bar 148 reachesthe second end of the slot 150. When located at the second end of theslot 150, the protrusion 152 may engage an adjacent switch 154, therebyindicating that the accessory 140 is at a position within the cookingcompartment 26 suitable for performing a second cooking operation. Whenthe switch 154 is engaged by the stop bar 148, a circuit for deliveringpower to one or more components of the cooking system 20. Once theaccessory 140 is moved out of engagement with the stop bar 148, thebiasing force of the biasing member will cause the stop bar 148 totranslate back to a position adjacent the first end of the slot 150.

Other types of sensors are also contemplated herein to determine when anaccessory 140 is located within the cooking compartment 26 at a positionsuitable for performing a cooking operation. With reference to FIGS.36a-37b , in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the sensorincludes a depressible plunger 156. Although the sensor is illustratedas being located within the cooking compartment 26, embodiments wherethe sensor is mounted about the housing 24 at a position external to thecooking compartment 26 are also within the scope of the disclosure. Whenan accessory 140 reaches the proper position during insertion into thecooking compartment 26, a portion of the accessory 140 engages andapplies a force to the plunger 156. In embodiments where the plunger 156has a bias, the force applied by the accessory 140 opposes the bias of aspring associated therewith. This movement of the plunger 156 maydirectly (FIGS. 36a and 36b ) or indirectly engage a correspondingswitch 154, thereby completing a circuit associated with operation ofthe cooking system 20. In an embodiment where the plunger 156 indirectlyoperates a switch 154, such as shown in FIGS. 37a and 37b , movement ofthe plunger 156 in a first direction, such as vertically for example, isconfigured to drive movement of an adjacent component 158 in a seconddirection, such as horizontally for example, into engagement with theswitch 154. In such embodiments, the adjacent component 158 may have abias rather than the plunger 156. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment of FIGS. 37a and 37b , a protrusion 159 extending from abottom of an accessory 140 is configured to engage and move the plunger156 to operate the switch 154.

As previously noted, various cooking accessories or inserts 140 may besuitable for use with the cooking system 20. In an embodiment, one ofthe accessories 140 (see FIG. 31) is a foldable grill or press. Examplesof such an accessory 140 include, but are not limited to a panini grill,a flat griddle, a waffle press, and a toastie press. Each of thesefoldable grill or press accessories may include two portions 160pivotally coupled to one another between a first position and a secondposition. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the housingportions are substantially identical and are movable about an axis to“fold” into a closed position where a cavity is formed between thehousing portions. Such a foldable grill or press accessory is receivablewithin the cooking compartment 26 when in the closed position. However,embodiments where only a portion of a foldable press accessory 140, suchas a single housing portion 160 for example, is used as an accessory 140are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, other accessorieshaving two or move portions that are pivotally or rotatable coupled toone another or movement between two or more positions are contemplatedherein.

With reference to FIGS. 38a and 38b , an example of another cookingaccessory 140 suitable for use with the cooking system 20 isillustrated. As shown, the cooking accessory 140 is a tray, such asformed from a thin layer of sheet metal. In the illustrated,non-limiting embodiment, the tray includes a base 162 and a lip 164extending at an angle, such as generally perpendicular for example, tothe base 162. In such embodiments, the lip 164 may, but need not definea grip point for a user to grasp and manipulate the tray. Alternatively,the tray 140 may include a handle 166, distinct from the lip 164. Itshould be understood that a tray having any suitable configuration, suchas a tray including only a generally flat base and no lip is also withinthe scope of the disclosure.

The cooking compartment 26 is in fluid communication with the ambientatmosphere surrounding the cooking system 20 via the opening 40.Accordingly when the cooking system 20 in the second horizontalconfiguration, the cooking compartment 26 may be unevenly heated as aresult of heat escaping through the opening 40. To minimize this heatloss through the opening 40, a shield may be configured to close orcover at least a portion of the opening. The shield may be a componentseparate from and connectable to the accessory 140 or the housing 24 toclose or cover at least a portion of the opening 40. In anotherembodiment, the shield may be formed as part of the accessory and isconfigured to close all or a majority of the opening 40 when theaccessory 140 is positioned within the cooking compartment 26.Accordingly, the shield may be formed from the same material as anaccessory or may be formed from a different material as the accessory.In an embodiment, at least a portion of the shield is formed from atransparent material, such as glass. In the illustrated, non-limitingembodiment of FIG. 38b , the accessory 140 is a tray, and the shield isformed by a lip 164 having an extended height. In such embodiments, thelip 164 may be substantially solid, or alternatively, may include one ormore openings or view ports 168 to allow a user to see the interior ofthe cooking compartment 26. In embodiments where the shield 168 of theaccessory 140 includes view ports 168, the view ports 168 may simply beexposed openings, or alternatively, may include a secondary, generallytransparent material (not shown) used to seal or close the openings 168without affecting the visibility into the cooking compartment 26.

Alternatively, or in addition, operation of the first and/or secondheating elements 78, 80 may be controlled to achieve even heating withinthe cooking compartment 26 when the internal cooking compartment 26 isat least partially exposed to an ambient environment via the opening 40and fluid transfer between said ambient environment and said internalcooking compartment can occur. As previously noted, one or more of theplurality of heating elements 78, 80 may be independently controlled.With reference now to FIG. 39, in an embodiment, the first heatingelement 78 arranged closest to the opening 40 (illustrated as 78 a inthe FIG.) is operable independently from the other first heatingelements 78 (illustrated as 78 b and 78 c in the FIG.), which may becontrolled as a group. The plurality of second heating elements 80 maybe controlled as a group, or alternatively, the second heating element80 arranged closest to the opening 40 (illustrated as 80 a in the FIG.)may be operated independently from the other second heating elements 80(illustrated as 80 b and 80 c in the FIG.). In such embodiments, thefirst and second heating element 78 a, 80 a positioned closest to theopening 40 may be controlled collectively, or alternatively, the firstand second heating elements 78 a, 80 a positioned closest to the opening40 may be controlled independently of one another and the other firstand second heating elements 78 b 78 c, 80 b, 80 c.

To compensate for the heat loss adjacent the opening 40, the heat outputfrom the heating elements may be variable across said internal cookingcompartment 26 during operation of the system in some cooking modes. Inan embodiment, the heat output by the first and/or second heatingelements 78 a, 80 a located adjacent the opening 40 may be greater thanthe heat output individually or collectively by the remainder of theheating elements 78 b 78 c, 80 b, 80 c. However, the heat output by thefirst and/or second heating elements 78 a, 80 a may be substantiallyidentical to the heat output individually or collectively from theremainder of the heating element 78 b 78 c, 80 b, 80 c. As describedherein, the parameters associated with independent control and theresulting variation in heat output from the heating elements 78, 80 mayinclude operation of the heating elements 78, 80 for different lengthsof time, continuous operation versus pulsed operation, and/or operationat different heat outputs, among other parameters. Further, althoughcontrol of a plurality of heating elements 78, 80 is described herein toprovide a desired variation in the heat within the cooking compartment26, it should be understood that a cooking system 20 having only asingle heating element may be configured and/or controlled to achievethe same variation.

With reference now to FIG. 40, when the cooking system 20 is in thesecond horizontal configuration, the cooking system 20 may be able toperform a warming operation. The cooking system 20 may be capable ofperforming this warming operation simultaneously with a second cookingoperation. However, the warming operation need not be performed at thesame time as a second cooking operation.

In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a portion of the housing24, such as the exterior surface of the rear wall 34 of the housing 24,which is oriented parallel to the support surface 22 when in the secondcooking configuration, is selectively operable as a warming area and istherefore heated during a warming operation. This portion of the housing24 may have a generally planar configuration, or alternatively, may haveone or more raised features. The raised features are configured tosupport a food support item, such as an accessory 140 or a dish forexample, at a position slightly offset from the adjacent planar surfaceof the housing 24. A configuration of the raised features may also beselected to prevent unintended movement of a food support itempositioned thereon. In an embodiment, the raised features are ribsspaces over the surface of the rear wall, and the offset between thesurface of the housing 24 and an upper surface of the raised features isabout 2 mm. Such a configuration may be used to limit the heat transferto the item located on the portion of the housing 24.

One or more of the first heating elements 78 may be used to heat theportion of the housing 24 during a warming operation. However, in otherembodiments, at least one third heating element (not shown), distinctfrom the first and second heating elements 78, 80 previously describedherein may be used to heat the portion of the housing 24. In suchembodiments, the at least one third heating element is mounted withinthe housing 24, external to the cooking compartment 26. In suchembodiments, the at least one third heating element may be controlledindependently from the first and second heating elements 78,80, and maybe operable simultaneously with at least one of the first and secondheating elements 78,80.

The cooking system 20 illustrated and described herein provides anenhanced user experience by transforming between a first orientation anda second orientation based on a desired cooking operation to beperformed. Additionally, by designing the cooking system 20 totransition between a first and second orientation, the cooking system 20can be positioned to minimize the total amount of counter space occupiedby the cooking system when the cooking system is not in use.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patentscited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each reference were individually and specifically indicated to beincorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the disclosure (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of valuesherein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referringindividually to each separate value falling within the range, unlessotherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated intothe specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methodsdescribed herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwiseindicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The useof any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”)provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the disclosureand does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unlessotherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construedas indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice ofthe disclosure.

Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure.Variations of those embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventorsexpect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, andthe inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise thanas specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includesall modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in theclaims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, anycombination of the above-described elements in all possible variationsthereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicatedherein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cooking system positionable on a supportsurface, the cooking system comprising: a housing having an internalcooking compartment and an opening formed in said housing for accessingsaid internal cooking compartment; and at least one heating element forheating said internal cooking compartment, said heating element beingoperable to heat said internal cooking compartment while said opening isat least partially exposed to an ambient environment to allow fluidtransfer between said ambient environment and said internal cookingcompartment; wherein output from said at least one heating element isvariable across said internal cooking compartment during operation ofthe system.
 2. The cooking system of claim 1, wherein said output fromsaid at least one heating element into said internal cooking compartmentat a location adjacent said opening is greater than said output fromsaid at least one heating element at a location adjacent a rear of saidcooking compartment.
 3. The cooking system of claim 1, wherein said atleast one heating element includes a first heating element and a secondheating element, said first heating element being operable to heat afront portion of said internal cooking compartment adjacent saidopening, and said second heating element being operable to heat a rearportion of said cooking compartment.
 4. The cooking system of claim 3,wherein said first heating element is operable independently from saidsecond heating element.
 5. The cooking system of claim 3, wherein duringoperation of the cooking system in the second position, heat generatedby said first heating element is greater than heat generated by saidsecond heating element.
 6. The cooking system of claim 5, wherein duringoperation of the cooking system in the second position, said firstheating element is energized for a greater time than said second heatingelement.
 7. The cooking system of claim 5, wherein said first heatingelement has a greater wattage than said second heating element.
 8. Thecooking system of claim 1, wherein said at least one heating element isa single heating element having a non-uniform configuration.
 9. Acooking system positionable on a support surface, the cooking systemcomprising: a housing having an internal cooking compartment and anopening formed in said housing for accessing said internal cookingcompartment; at least one heating element for heating said internalcooking compartment; and an accessory receivable within said internalcooking compartment via said opening, wherein said accessory closes atleast a portion of said opening when said accessory is received withinsaid internal cooking compartment.
 10. The cooking system of claim 9,wherein said accessory is a tray having a base and a lip extending at anangle to said base.
 11. The cooking system of claim 10, wherein whensaid tray is positioned within said internal cooking compartment saidlip substantially closes said opening.
 12. The cooking system of claim10, wherein at least one view port is formed in said lip.
 13. Thecooking system of claim 12, wherein at least one view port is closedwith a transparent material.
 14. A cooking system positionable on asupport surface, the cooking system comprising: a housing having aninternal cooking compartment, said housing being movable between a firstorientation and a second orientation; at least one heating element forheating said internal cooking compartment; an insert insertable intosaid internal cooking compartment; and a mechanism positionable in orabout said housing for detecting insertion of said insert in saidinternal cooking compartment, said mechanism allowing operation of saidat least one heating element when said insert is detected.
 15. Thecooking system of claim 14, wherein said mechanism allows operation ofsaid at least one heating element only when said insert is detected. 16.The cooking system of claim 14, wherein said mechanism determines whensaid insert is properly positioned within said internal cookingcompartment.
 17. The cooking system of claim 14, wherein said mechanismfurther comprises a stop bar.
 18. The cooking system of claim 14,wherein said mechanism further comprises a plunger.
 19. The cookingsystem of claim 14, wherein at least a portion of said mechanism ispositioned within said internal cooking compartment, within a path ofinsertion of said insert.
 20. The cooking system of claim 14, whereinsaid mechanism restricts movement of said insert within said internalcooking compartment.
 21. The cooking system of claim 14, wherein saidinsert includes a first support feature complementary to a secondsupport arranged about said housing, wherein said second support featurecooperates with said first support feature to position said accessorywithin said internal cooking compartment.
 22. A cooking systempositionable on a support surface, the cooking system comprising: ahousing having an internal cooking compartment; at least one heatingelement for heating said internal cooking compartment; and at least onefood support element affixed within said internal cooking compartment,said at least one food support element being translatable and pivotablewithin said internal cooking compartment.
 23. The cooking system ofclaim 22, wherein the cooking system further comprises a radiant casingpositioned within said housing, said at least one food support elementbeing mounted to said radiant casing.
 24. The cooking system of claim23, wherein said at least one food support element includes one or moreposts located within one or more support openings formed in said radiantcasing, wherein a configuration of said one or more support openingsdefines a path of movement of said at least one food support element.25. The cooking system of claim 22, further comprising a biasingmechanism operably coupled to said at least one food support element,wherein said at least one food support element is movable in response toa biasing force of said biasing mechanism.
 26. The cooking system ofclaim 22, wherein said at least one food support element includes afirst food support element and a second food support element separatedfrom one another by a gap.
 27. The cooking system of claim 26, whereinsaid at least one food support element is movable between a firstposition and a second position, wherein when said at least one supportelement is in said second position, said gap is non-uniform over aheight of said at least one food support element.
 28. The cooking systemof claim 27, wherein when said at least one support element is in saidfirst position, said gap is uniform over said height of said at leastone food support element.
 29. The cooking system of claim 22, furthercomprising a movable support member disposed within said internalcooking compartment, wherein said at least one food support elementtranslates and pivots in response to movement of said support member.30. The cooking system of claim 29, further comprising a movementmechanism operable to move said support member.